an information service for parents of children and young ... · magazine fills me with optimism....

The

IRISMagazine March 2015

An Information Service For Parents Of Children And Young People With Special Educational Needs And Disabilities in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire

Tel: 0115 853 3291 E: [email protected] W: www.askiris.org.uk @askirisnotts familyactionirisproject

Inside this issue

Syndromes Without A NameMeet Jo and Jacob Burt...See page 9

Waking WhirlwindsNew ADHD group opened in Aspley...See page 3

Nice Ice TrainingFree new program gets young people skating... See page 10

2 The IRIS Magazine

A new scheme provides Safe Places in the community where vulnerable people can go if they get into trouble or feel unsafe, are lost or frightened or are being bullied.The person with a vulnerability (such as a learning disability or autism) carries a Safe Places Help Card with their name and emergency contact details and public premises (like shops, libraries, police stations and pubs) sign up to be officially known as a ‘Safe Place’ for vulnerable people.

If a person needs help when they are in the community, they can show their help card to a member of staff in a Safe Place and someone will then provide a safe place to sit, call their emergency contact or call the Police, depending on the problem.

The scheme is supported by Notts Police, Notts Fire & Rescue Service, Nottingham City Council and Nottinghamshire County Council.

Mickey Arnold (see photo above) said: “This Safe Places will help me and my friends feel safer when we go out and about round Nottingham. I know I can always get help if I need it.”

Contact Smile! Stop Hate Crime on 0115 956 1130 to get a Help card or to become a Safe Place or visit the Nottingham Mencap website www.nottinghammencap.org.uk to find out more.

NPH Hits 400 MembersThe Nottinghamshire Participation Hub (NPH) has confirmed that it has signed up its 400th parent carer member.Despite the achievement the group says that it knows there are still more people out there who want to have a greater voice and discuss what is working with SEN and Disability provision in the county and where things could be improved.

The group has also introduced the role of Coordinator for its Sub-Hubs, which meet in smaller sessions in the north, south, east and centre of the county and feed into the larger steering group

– which then represents those views locally and across the East Midlands.

This coordinator will become the local contact and focal point for all things NPH, help to shape participation and encourage more members to join NPH in their local area.

Finally, NPH says it will also be launching a new website in the coming months dedicated to parent carer participation and other helpful things to do with education, health, social care and community services. Watch this space!

To join NPH visit the website at www.aptcoo.co.uk/nph, call 01623 629902 or email [email protected]

Micky Arnold with Mencap’s Denise Hickman

Safe Places

ContentsPage No.

Safe Places NPH Hits 400 Members

Editor’s CommentsWaking Whirlwinds

Cat Lands On Her Feet...Nathanial At Exploring Together

iPad Instrumentalists Know The ScoreMe Time

Nottinghamshire Family Information EventsA University To Call Our Own?

The Lighthouse MomentWhat is DCD/Dyspraxia?Change of Name For Autism Charity

Nottinghamshire’s Local Offer...Informative Speakers Confirmed For ‘Working Together’

Reaching OutSyndromes Without A Name

Nice Ice Training

A Unique Holiday Experience For DisabilityIncluding Parents Conference

Sky’s The LimitIndigo Information DayButterfly Wings SEN support group

Vigilant Parent Helps Spread Hearing Aid Safety AwarenessFunding Available For Nottinghamshire Organisations

Tempestuous Transitions

Focus On... SHINEWinter Wonderland

Hear2Help Gets a Hot Choc Boost!Fundays Summer School Dates AnnouncedHave A Go!Step Up To Bat This Summer

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The IRIS Magazine 3

Editor’s CommentsI, like many of IRIS’ readers, grew up in what you might call the pre-screen age.

When I wanted to listen to music I would drop the needle on the

record player (and later the CD into its tray) and wait for my dad’s look of disapproving scorn.

Just last week, however, the same father was showing me a music video for a song he liked on his tiny smartphone screen (this time it was my chance to disapprove – he has terrible taste in music).

Similarly, when I was a teenager my mum and I would put on our best clothes and head out to the theatre (my mum has a thing for whodunnits and thrillers) whenever we felt like a treat.

Yet recently when we went to see “a Streetcar Named Desire” we did so sitting in a cinema while it was streamed live from London’s Young Vic Theatre.

These developments are amazing, but there is the worry that we’re trading communal, lived experiences for consumable, convenient and yet strangely impersonal ones.

Barely a week goes by without somebody ringing our project and asking if I know of any activities to get their child or young person out of the house and away from their Xbox/Playstation/iPad.

This isn’t a judgment on technology - these inventions are all amazing in isolation - but there is a need to ensure that we don’t trade all our lived experiences for virtual ones.

Which is why so much of this magazine fills me with optimism.

Writer Gill Brigg enthuses about the technical aspects of set design, surround sound, music and lighting when talking about Wave, her play

inspired by Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”, on page 14 – and it’s clear she has a very modern perspective on how to deliver theatre.

And yet she’s using these developments to tell personal stories of independence, freedom and fear to intimate audiences – often families – in a shared, and very real space.

The young people of Fountaindale and Portland Colleges take this technological empowerment one step further on page 5.

By performing music using iPads they have harnessed the very screens which can often turn us into consumers and have instead made instruments of them.

Watching them perform at the Mansfield Palace Theatre late last month was a magical experience, and one I’m glad I got the chance to see in the flesh.

Now, you’ll have to excuse me, but I think I’m going to dig out some theatre programmes and ring my mum…

Following reports that the group had gone from strength to strength in a few short months IRIS headed down to the group and spoke with parents who attend the group.

Laura Pike is from Top Valley and says that the group is a great excuse to get out of the house and to shake off the feeling that she’s the only parent

who’s struggling with their child’s behaviour.

She added: “People share their problems and there’s conversations about how people manage certain things day to day, and that’s very useful to me”.

Despite living in Nottingham Phil Dunstan and Fiona Sharp had actually

attended the group in Leicester before the organisers decided to start a local session!

They first got involved after attending a training course – dubbed ‘123 Magic’, which is a behaviour management programme that gives parents strategies to manage their child’s behaviour in a positive way and is hosted by organisers ADHD Solutions.

The couple say the course helped them understand how vulnerable children with ADHD can be.

Fiona said: It’s nice to speak to people who are in the same boat and it gives you the confidence to know that your child isn’t “naughty”.“They help you understand that your child doesn’t wake up thinking that they’re going to make your life difficult. They’re just whirlwinds”.The support group takes place at Aspley Library on Nuthall Road on the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 10am to 12 Noon.For more information contact 0116 261 0711 or email [email protected]

Waking WhirlwindsLast edition we ran a short story telling people about a new ADHD group which had opened in Aspley.

4 The IRIS Magazine

IRIS readers know that being the parent or carer of a child with additional needs can be hard work. But Contract Foster Carer Cat Green says that her role – which involves looking after young people on a short term basis in her own home – is exactly what she was looking for.

Cat has experience of working with adults with learning disabilities and of long term mainstream fostering and as such can pick apart exactly why she loves her job so much – the chance to work with and support families to get a much-needed break.

She said: “I think it’s the best move I’ve ever made. Working with young people with disabilities is so rewarding and it gives the parents a chance to breath.

“Whenever I take a placement on I go and meet the parents and ask the routine. I want to follow it through as best as I can – it’s easier for me too!”

Cat first got started with the service thanks to her sister, who had a foster carer for her child who has Down’s syndrome - and suggested Cat would find it rewarding.

At the time she had moved from supporting adults with learning disabilities to mainstream foster care and said that she had found the work less fulfilling.

She adds “I just feel that when you’re working with someone with a disability the smaller achievements can mean so much… you feel like you’re making more of a difference”.

At the moment Cat is caring for two children for a few nights each month – although contract carers can manage up to seven children in this period if they desire.

This workload suits Cat, who says that this has allowed her time to spend with her son and grandchildren, and also to indulge her own pursuits – including studying at college and taking her driving test.

Cat says she would recommend the work to anyone – even those who are unsure if they would rather go into long-term fostering.

She added: “I would advise anyone going into fostering to give it a go because it does affect your life - you can be set in your ways and this little person comes in and tears all your plans to pieces!”

For more information on becoming a contract carer with Nottingham City Council please call the Short Breaks Team on 0115 883 8280 or visit www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/shortbreaks or visit www.nottinghamjobs.com and search ‘Health and Social Care’.

Cat Lands On Her Feet With Dream Contract Carer Role

“I think it’s the best move I’ve ever made. Working with young people with disabilities is so rewarding and it gives the parents a chance to breath.

Nathanial gets to grips with a trio of toy trains at Exploring Together’s new home at Calverton Leisure Centre. The group for families of children aged 0-12 with additional needs moved from its old home at Arnbrook earlier this year.

It features sensory equipment, support and advice, messy play and more and takes place every Wednesday from 1.30pm until 3pm.

For more information contact 0115 911 8700.

The IRIS Magazine 5

Playing to a packed house at the Mansfield Palace Theatre late last month the “Able Orchestra” – made up of pupils from Fountaindale School, Portland College and the Brunts School – joined members of the BBC Concert Orchestra for a unique showcase event.

Able Orchestra have worked with County Youth Arts since November to write and arrange the music for their section, which was played back by pupils using iPads – allowing for a range of accessible input methods.

Their music is a hypnotic electronica made from computer generated sounds and “found sounds” recorded by the schools during composition –

featuring breaking twigs, the random squeaks of wheelchair tyres and the sound of splashing water.

County Youth Arts musicians Si Tew and Roni Samson had helped develop this process, while digital artist Bec Smith worked with other pupils at the school to develop the video art that accompanied the music.

Finally, after each section of the orchestra had performed their showcase each group met

back up to play a triumphant group collaboration piece called “Hypnotic Pulse”, which closed the night in style.

Speaking to the IRIS magazine before the performance Fountaindale pupil Jessica Fisher, 15 said: “I’ve never really performed in anything like this before but it’s exciting.

“It’s nice to mix with people of different abilities, get to know different people and hang out with my friends - disabled people can play music too!”

Fountaindale Assistant Head Samantha Sheppard agreed that the whole experience had been Inspirational.

She added: “I’ve been here throughout the whole process and I’ve seen the confidence and imagination of the pupils just grow and grow throughout.”

For more information about County Youth Arts visit www.nottscc.gov.uk/countyyoutharts telephone 01623 644 377 or email [email protected]

iPad Instrumentalists Know The ScoreIn a sumptuous feast for the senses pupils from two local special schools wowed audiences at a recent arts showcase.

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Me TimeIf an adult you know is interested in improving their health, making friends and having fun then Mencap may have the answer.

The learning disability charity is launching a new “Me Time” programme in Mansfield and Ashfield which aims to promote learning new skills.

A range of activities are available including sports such as basketball, football and badminton as well as dancing, keep fit, swimming and even indoor bowls.

These sessions run at Lammas Leisure Centre in Sutton in Ashfield from 9am until 4pm on Thursdays and you can choose to attend a full or half day session.

A busy schedule means that bringing a packed lunch is essential, although hot and cold drinks are provided.

For more information or to book your place call Tina Tew on 07983 535 308 or email [email protected]

6 The IRIS Magazine

The family information events give you the chance to meet Nottinghamshire County Council’s Approved and Community Providers, find out more about Personal Budgets and discuss the services provided by Children’s Disability Services, including the Short Breaks and Personalisation Team.

These events take place on:

8th April – Summit Centre, Kirkby-in-Ashfield – 10am-6pm

14th April – Richard Herrod Centre, Carlton – 10am-6pm

18th April – North Notts Arena, Worksop – 10am-4pm.

Refreshments will be available for parents and carers and a variety of activities will be provided for children and young people - including table cricket and boccia sessions, arts and crafts and a chill out sensory tent (depending on the venue).

Who will be there?Approved providers of sitting and befriending, holiday, play and youth activities and individual home based childcare:

APTCOO (A Place to Call Our Own)Allied HealthcareAutism East MidlandsCrossroads Care East MidlandsCrossroads Care North Notts Hope HouseIndigo KidsNewark & Sherwood Play SupportNottingham Mencap

Nottinghamshire YMCA Day CampsNurture CarePrestige Nursing LtdREAL EducationRoyal MencapSCOPESport Works East Midlands

In-House (NCC) Providers:Occupational Therapy Team including the Equipment Loan SchemePlay for Disabled Children’s TeamIndependent Travel Trainer ProjectThe Mill Adventure Base

Early Help UnitChildren’s Centres TransitionsSEND Local OfferNCC Inclusive sportNotts Performing ArtsParent Partnership Service

Community Providers:Sports & Leisure ActivitiesHoliday & Play OpportunitiesParent Groups Play forumsIRIS

Nottinghamshire Family Information Events Help You Meet The People That MatterThree information events taking place in the county over the next month can help you navigate what’s out there for your child or young person with a disability or special educational need.

A University To Call Our Own?Towards the end of last year the charity A Place To Call Our Own (APTCOO) was invited by PhD students from the University of Nottingham to participate in a study investigating sensory perception in young people on the autistic spectrum.

Here APTCOO’s Milke Holmes (pictured) tells us how three members from its 14 - 19 group A Voice to

Call Our Own agreed to volunteer for the project and visit the campus in February:

“We arrived at 10am and were told that the project consisted of seven tasks exploring aspects of the senses - ranging from picture puzzles exploring verbal and nonverbal ability to challenges involving virtual reality simulations and computer games.

One task looked at how young people with autism integrate information they see and feel. The participants were shown two video images of their right hand on a computer screen and then felt their right hand being stroked with a brush. They were then asked to guess which video image showed their real right hand and were also asked to point to a target.

Another task explored depth perception. The participants were

asked to wear 3D glasses to view an object on a computer screen and judge whether it was nearer or further away than another object.

Yet another involved a computer game in which they needed to explore a virtual world to find a worm hidden under some grass. This explored visual spatial search capabilities.

It was a lot of fun and despite the long day (ending at 4pm!) the young AVTCOO members were patient, conscientious and happy to do anything required of them - in fact the research students said they were very happy with our members and asked them to come back for future research projects.

Our members were also especially pleased when they were rewarded for their hard work with £40 of Amazon vouchers each at the end of the day!”

The IRIS Magazine 7

Change Of Name For Autism CharityThe charity NORSACA has changed its name to Autism East Midlands. It says the new name will enable people to immediately recognise what it does and who it supports.

Autism East Midlands is the largest specialist autism charity in the East Midlands and has been running for over 45 years.

To find out more about the charity visit its website; www.autismeastmidlands.org.uk or follow it on Twitter @Autism_eastmids

You can contact Autism East Midlands by sending an email to; [email protected] or by calling 01909 506678.

A group which shares information and experiences regarding DCD (Developmental Co-ordination Disorder) /Dyspraxia is helping to light the way for parents and carers. The group meets once a month on a Wednesday in the main meeting room at the Children’s Development Centre (CDC) from 12.30-2.30pm and welcomes new members.

It first started when a number of parents met on a handwriting course for children with DCD last year.

Organiser Johanna Ware said: “We got chatting and all of us said it’s lovely to talk to other parents of children with Dyspraxia.

“Some schools are not really that aware of it and you feel like you’re on your own - It’s a lighthouse moment to hear that other parents are thinking the same things”.

The condition can look different in different children and while speaking with IRIS at the group in January parents discussed a range of behaviours that first made them aware their children interacted with the world in a different way, including: l Mixing with few other children, other than one close friend. l Eating sand – “It’s a sensory thing…”l Poor muscle tone/coordinationl Difficulty with fine manual tasks such as Lego/Jigsaws l Social awareness/naivety with jokes – “You’re not pulling my leg! I can see!”l Poor handwriting/hand eye coordination

If any of the above sounds familiar and you would like to come to the group, or would just like to discuss what it does then contact [email protected]

The Lighthouse Moment

Joanna describes son Jacob as “determined” - you can see why!

What is DCD/Dyspraxia? DCD is lifelong condition and a common disorder affecting motor coordination in children and adults and may also affect speech. It is independent of intellectual abilities and individuals who have DCD present in different ways depending on environment.

Children may have problems with self-care, writing, typing, riding a bike and play as well as other

educational and recreational activities and as adults may struggle with time management, planning and personal organization, as well as learning new skills such as driving a car and DIY.

Many people with DCD also experience difficulties with memory, perception and processing.

While DCD is used as the wider term to cover motor coordination difficulties, dyspraxia refers to those people who have additional problems planning, organising and carrying out movements in the right order in

everyday situations. Dyspraxia can also affect articulation and speech, perception and thought.

DCD can often also occur in addition to other conditions such as ADHD, autism and sensory processing difficulties (SPD – Sensory Processing Disorder).

And a recommendation from the group…

A good book for those wanting to find out about Sensory Processing Disorder is “The Out-of-Sync Child” by Carol Stock Kranowitz.

These websites are required to develop and respond to feedback from you, its users, so here are a selection of the thoughts and comments you’ve shared with the council over the last few months, and the steps it has been making to try and improve your experience of using the SEND Local Offer.

You said The site should be made more accessible.

The Local Offer hasl Invested in Speak It + technology. This will be appearing on the Local Offer site in the coming weeks. The technology will enable users to expand the font size on the screen and/or use a screen reader to verbalize what is on each web page.

l Added a ‘closed caption’ version of an animation explaining the new Education, Health and Care Plan Pathway to make it accessible to the hearing impaired. Closed captions

will be added to other animations soon.

You said You wanted to see more photographs on the site.

The Local Offer is Looking to use photographs and/or graphics on the site wherever possible, although there is a need to make sure that any photos or images don’t give a misleading impression about the age range that a service or provision might be available for.

You said That general searches brought up too much information that made it difficult to find your way through. You felt that sub-categories would help you find information more easily.

The Local Offer is Developing new web pages which will sit below the home page and will provide the sub-categories that will make it easier to find

information within the local offer. Some of these have already started appearing, the remainder should be in place by Easter.

You said Some of you felt that the lists of filters that are available to help you narrow down searches for relevant information should be on the left hand side of the page as people commonly read across the screen from left to right.

The Local Offer has Amended the site so the filters now appear on the left hand side of web pages.

How Can I Comment?If you think you have some feedback that might be useful you can share your thoughts and comments regarding the local offer in a number of ways:

1. By completing the short Survey on the Local Offer homepage - www.nottinghamshire.sendlocaloffer.org.uk - to tell the local offer how you’ve found using the site – Was it easy to search and navigate? Was information presented in a way that was clear and helpful? etc.2. By emailing send.localoffer@nottscc. gov.uk or calling 01623 664952 to let the team know if there are gaps in the Local Offer. Are there services or provision that you are using or are aware of that aren’t currently included? Please provide as much information as you can. The team will then make contact with the provider to ask them to register their information on the Local Offer. 3. You can also highlight any gaps or tell it what is working or isn’t working well with the Local Offer through the Nottinghamshire Participation Hub meetings in your area. For more details regarding NPH see our story on (Page ?) IRIS contributes to the news section of the Local Offer - For more articles such as this you can use the news tab on the Local Offer front page to find about the latest SEND activities, issues and developments, both locally and nationally.

8 The IRIS Magazine

Nottinghamshire’s Local Offer Is Changing To Meet Your NeedsIn September of last year Local Authorities across Britain each launched their “Local Offer” - websites which aim to gather together all the helpful information for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities and their families in one place.

Informative Speakers Confirmed For Rainbow Parents Carers Forum 4th Annual Event - ‘Working Together’A host of influential and interesting speakers are lined up for this year’s Rainbow Parents Carers Forum Annual Event.

Special Educational Needs Barrister Steve Broach will be hosting a presentation on the Children and Families Act and Leicester City’s SEN Regional Pathfinder Champion

Pat Bullen will be talking about co-production and where parent carers should fit into the picture.

Finally Cllr Stephen Green, the first parish Councillor with Down’s Syndrome in England, will share his experiences of representing the voice of his borough.

Information stands from key organisations will also be on hand on the day and workshops will take place regarding the Care Act 2015, Wills and Trusts and Sleep, with more to be confirmed closer to the date

The free annual event takes place on

April 1st, runs from 9.15am until 4pm and is located at NCVS on 7 Mansfield Rd, NG1 3FB Nottingham.

For more information, or to find out

how to book tickets for the event contact the forum on 0115 934 8451 or via email at [email protected]

Every day Monday to Friday13:00-15:00 Respite Care@Look Inside Look Inside Sensory Learning & Play LTD, NG3 2NR Contact: Reception 0742 4032564 or [email protected]

15:15-18:00 After School Club@Look Inside Look Inside Sensory Learning & Play LTD, NG3 2NR Contact: Reception 0742 4032564 or [email protected]

Every Monday09:15-10:15 Soft Play Sessions Cotgrave Leisure Centre, Woodview, Cotgrave, Notts. NG12 3PJ Contact 0115 989 2916 or [email protected]

09:30am-11:30am Spectrum Wasp Coffee Morning (term time only) Sherwood West Childrens Centre, Water Road, Rainworth, Notts. NG21 ODU Contact: Joseph Whitaker School 01623 795610 or [email protected]:30-12:00 Parent Partnership Service Drop In - Hucknall. Run by Indigo. The Old School, Beardall Street, Hucknall, Notts, NG15 7JU Contact: Parent Partnership Service 0115 948 2888 or [email protected]:00-13:30 Inclusive Sports@Huthwaite Leisure Centre Huthwaite Leisure Centre, New St, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts. NG17 2LR Contact Community Engagement Manager 07711 370215 or [email protected]:00am-12:00pm Adult Disability Swimming Session - Victoria Leisure Centre Victoria Leisure Centre, Gedling Street, Nottingham, NG1 1DB Contact: Victoria Leisure Centre 0115 876 169011:15-12:15 Active@Arena – Bassetlaw – Multisports North Notts Community Arena, Eastgate, Worksop, Notts. S80 1QS Contact Craig 01909 480164

12:00-13:30 Disabled Swimming Session @ Rebecca Adlington Swimming Centre Rebecca Adlington Swimming Centre, Westdale Road, Mansfield, Notts. NG19 7BZ Contact Reception 01623 463082

12.30-14.30 Butterfly Wings Monday Sessions The Summer House, Clare Road, Sutton in Ashfield, Notts. NG17 5BB Contact: 07935 71425313:00-15:00 APTCOO Under 5’s: A group for families with a child under 5 with a disability APTCOO, Unit 15, Botany Park, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 5NF Contact 01623 62990213:30-14:25 Carlton Digby School Toddler Group 61 Digby Avenue, Mapperley, Nottingham, NG3 6DS Contact Julie Witham or Julie Dooley 0115 956 828916:00-17:30 Newark and Sherwood Autism Support Group Siblings Club The William Gladstone CofE Primary School, Holden Crescent, Newark, Notts. NG24 4HU Contact: Laura 07808 34521116:30-18:00pm Inclusive Archery Portland College, Nottingham Road, Mansfield, Notts. NG19 8NR Contact Dave Winter 01623 499113 or [email protected]

16:30-17:30 Want 2 Play FC Kimberley Kimberley Leisure Centre, Newdigate Street, Nottingham, Notts. NG16 2NJ Contact: Kevin Sanders 0115 983 7406 or [email protected]

18:00-19:00 SAND Sports Club Sports Hall Session Sports Hall, Worksop College, Sparken Hill, Worksop, Notts. S80 3AP Contact: Sian Kirk 01909 534489 or [email protected]

18.30-20:30 Worksop Youth Link For Disabled People Aged 13-24yrs Valley Young People’s Centre, 39 Stanley Street, Worksop, Notts. S81 7JQ Contact: Lyndsey Radford 01623 411300 or [email protected]

18:30-19:30 NDCC Cricket - £3 per session Mansfield Hosiery Mills, The Fieldings, off Huthwaite Road, Sutton in Ashfield, Notts. NG17 2TF Contact: Pete Edwards 0115 977 2884 or [email protected]

18:30-20:00 Sherwood Seals Disability Swimming Club Rebecca Adlington Swimming Centre, Westdale Road, Mansfield, Notts. NG19 7BZ Contact Shirley Freeman 01623 406241 or [email protected]

18:30-20:00 Special Olympics Club - Nottingham City. £1 per session Oakfield Specialist Sports College, Bilborough, Nottingham, NG8 3HW Contact Helen Derby 07824 871706

18:30-20:30 Portland College Monday Youth Club Portland College, Nottingham Road, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 4TJ Contact 01623 626972

18:30-21:00 Eastwood Youth Link For Disabled Children Aged 13-24 Years Eastwood Young People’s Centre, Kelham Way, Eastwood, Notts. NG16 3SG Contact: Carol Greaves 07949 270038 or [email protected]

19:00-21:00 Nottinghamshire Powerchair FC Garibaldi College, Garibaldi Road, Forest Town, Mansfield, Notts. NG19 0JX Contact Ricky Stevenson 07932 071364

19:00-21:00 Ollerton Youth Link For Disabled People Aged 13-24yrs Dukeries Young Peoples Centre, Main Road, Boughton, Newark, Notts. NG22 9JE Contact: Lyndsey Radford 01623 411300 or [email protected]

Alternate Mondays09:30-13:00 APTCOO North One to One Support Sessions for Parents and Carers Contact: Suzy Pitchley 01623 629902 or [email protected]

1st Monday of the month09:30-11:30 Parent Partnership Service Drop In - Newark Young People’s Centre, Windsor Road, Newark, Notts. Contact: Parent Partnership Service 0115 948 2888 or [email protected]

18:15-21:15 Special Kids Nottingham Get Together Punchbowl Public House, 214 Porchester Road, Nottingham, NG3 6HG Tel: 07852 156570

18:30-19:30 Parent Partnership Service Drop In - Rushcliffe Central College, Greythorne Drive, West Bridgford, Notts. NG2 7GA Contact: Parent Partnership Service 0115 948 2888 or [email protected]

19:00-21:00 Rushcliffe Autism Support Group Poppy and Pint, Pierrepont Road, West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 5DX. Contact Paula Webb 0115 914 9757

Every Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday10:00-17:00 Disabled Water Skiing Sessions Church Wilne Water Ski club, Long Eaton, Derbyshire DE72 3QF Contact: 07970 617441 or [email protected]

Last Monday of the month19:00-21:00 Adults with ADHD Support Group (and their carers) Venue changes - please contact for details. Contact: Sue Smith 0115 982 2573 or [email protected]

Every Tuesday10:00-11:55 Indigo Tots Group (Term time only) The Old School, Beardall Street, Hucknall, Notts, NG15 7JU Contact Lou Hickman-Slawson 0115 952 1164 or [email protected]

12:00-18:00 Let’s Play Together Free. The Bungalow, Keyworth Primary School, Nottingham Road, Keyworth, Nottingham, NG12 5FB Contact Linda Cox 0115 9374589 or [email protected]

15:00-17:30 Newark Disability Swimming Club Grove Leisure Centre, London Road, Balderton, Newark, NG24 3AL Contact Helen Purdy 01636 655797 or [email protected]

15:30-17:00 Wheelchair Basketball and Inclusive Sports Club - Ashfield Sutton Centre Community College, High Pavement, Sutton in Ashfield, Notts. NG17 1EE Contact James Adcock 08452 405500

16:00-16:30 Newark Disability Swimming Club (excluding school holidays) Grove Leisure Centre, London Road, Balderton, Newark, NG24 3AL Contact Helen Purdy 01636 655797 or [email protected]

16:00-17:00 Oaktree Gymnastics Club Oak Tree Leisure Centre, Jubilee Way South, Mansfield, NG18 3RT Contact: Darren Kissane 0345 0000 231 or [email protected]

16:00-17:30 Gedling Sport+ Club £2 per session Carlton Forum, Coningswath Road, Carlton, Nottingham, NG4 3SH Contact Maureen Fox 0115 856 8289 or [email protected] 16:15pm-17.15pm Inclusive SelectaSport Club Costs £2. Term Time Only. The Bramcote School, Derby Road, Bramcote, Notts. NG9 3GD. Contact: Broxtowe Sport 0115 917 3572 or [email protected]

The IRIS Magazine Events

Events for your diary

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16:30-18:30 The Big Kick 5 a-side Football League Thane Rd, Lenton Lane Industrial Estate, Nottingham, NG7 2TG Contact Sophie 07931 246757 or [email protected]

16:30-19:30 Breakaway Drama, Art and Music Group. Free. 43 Carlton Road, Worksop, Notts. S80 1PD. Contact: Teresa or Sharon 0115 837 4949 or [email protected]

16:30-19:30 Oaktree Trampoline Club Oaktree Leisure Centre, Jubilee Way S, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 3RT Contact: Reception 01623 463 820

17:30-19:25 Indigo Kids Club The Old School, Beardall Street, Hucknall, Notts, NG15 7JU Contact Emma Hutchinson 0115 952 1164 or [email protected]

18:00-19:00 Want 2 Play FC Calverton/Debz 4 Coffee Football Sessions MWFC Colts, Hollinwood Lane, Calverton, Notts. NG13 6NR Contact Kevin Sanders 0115 983 7406 or [email protected]

18:00-19:00 Want 2 Play FC Oaktree Oaktree Leisure Centre, Jubilee Way S, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 3RT Contact Kevin Sanders 0115 983 7406 or [email protected]

18:00-19:00 Want 2 Play FC Retford Retford Town FC, Cannon Park, Leatherton Road, Retford, Notts. DN22 6QF Contact Kevin Sanders 0115 983 7406 or [email protected]

18:00-19:00 Want 2 Play FC Woodhouse Colts The Garibaldi College, Garibaldi Road, Forest Town, Mansfield, Notts. NG19 0JX Contact Kevin Sanders 0115 983 7406 or [email protected]

18.30-21:00 Mansfield Youth Link For Disabled People Aged 13-24yrs Myplace @ Westfield Folkhouse, Westfield Lane, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1TL Contact: Rachael Peat 01623 624179 or [email protected]

18:30-19:30 Want 2 Play FC Aspley Park Contact Kevin Sanders 0115 983 7406 or [email protected]

18:30-19:30 Want 2 Play FC Blidworth Joseph Whitaker School, Rainworth, Notts. NG21 0AG Contact Kevin Sanders 0115 983 7406 or [email protected]

18:30-20:00 Wheelchair Basketball Club - Mansfield. For ages 8-19, £3 per week. The Brunts School, The Park, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 2AT Contact: Andrew Tyler 07831 267 973

18:30-21:00 Beeston Youth Link For Disabled Children Aged 13-24 Years Beeston Young People’s Centre, West End, Beeston, Notts. NG9 1GL Contact: Carol Greaves 07949 270038 or [email protected]

19:00-20:00 Want 2 Play FC Gedling Southbank Play Football Arnold, Arnold Hill School, Arnold Hill School & Technology College, Gedling Road, Nottingham, NG5 6NZ Contact: Kevin Sanders 0115 9837406 or [email protected]

19:00-21:00 Mansfield Maulers Wheelchair Basketball Club (Tuesday) Brunts School, The Park, Park Avenue, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 2AT Contact: Pete Edwards 01623 635572 or [email protected]

19:00-21:00 Mansfield Swimming Club Water Meadows, Titchfield Park, Bath Street, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1BA Contact: Reception 0345 0000 232 or [email protected]

Fortnightly on a Tuesday9:30-1:00 APTCOO North One to One Support Sessions for Parents and Carers Contact: Suzy Pitchley 01623 629902 or [email protected]

Alternate Tuesdays09:30-11:30 Parent Partnership Service Drop In - Mansfield APTCOO, Botany Avenue, Botany Avenue, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 5NF Contact: Parent Partnership Service 0115 948 2888 or [email protected]

1st Tuesday of the month13:00-15:00 Spectrum Coffee and Chat@Python Hill School The Treehouse, Python Hill School, Kirklington Road, Rainworth, Mansfield, NG21 OJZ Contact: Suzy Edwards or Sue Harpham 01623 795610 or [email protected]

2nd Tuesday of the month10:00-12:00 ADHD Support Group Nottingham Aspley Library, Nuthall Road, Nottingham NG8 5DD Contact: ADHD solutions 0116 261 0711, or [email protected]

3rd Tuesday of the month16:00-20:00 The Best We Can Be Drop In Sessions - Worksop NORSACA Work and Learn Centre, Dukeries Centre, Park Street, Worksop, Notts. S80 1HH Contact: NORSACA 01909 509400

Every Tuesday and Wednesday17:30-19:25 Indigo Coffee And Chat For Parents The Old School, Beardall Street, Hucknall, Notts, NG15 7JU Contact Indigo Kids 0115 952 1164 or [email protected]

Every Wednesday10:00-12:00 Indigo Advice Surgery The Old School, Beardall Street, Hucknall, Notts, NG15 7JU Contact Indigo Kids 0115 952 1164 or [email protected]

10:00-14:00 Jigsaw Sherwin Road Community Garden, Sherwin Road, Lenton, Nottingham, Notts. NG7 2FB Contact Danek 07762 207532

10:00-14:00 The Maze Drop In Maze now at Nottingham Community and Voluntary Service, 7 Mansfield Road, Nottingham, NG1 3FB 0115 934 8451 or 07783 82683510:00-15:00 Blast Sports Club - Multisports North Notts Community Arena, Eastgate, Worksop, Notts. S80 1QS Contact Craig 01909 480164

11:00-12:00 Multiskills Football - Ashfield Lammas Leisure Centre, Lammas Rd, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts. NG17 2AD Contact Ashfield District Council 01623 457410

12:30-13:00 The Kimberley School Boccia Club The Kimberley School, Newdigate Street, Kimberley, Notts. NG16 2NJ Contact Louise Croft 0115 938 7000

13:15-14:15 The Speech, Sign and Song Club Contact Wendy Prevezer 0115 922 1318 or [email protected]

13:30-15:00 Exploring Together Group - Calverton Calverton Leisure Centre, Flatts Lane, Calverton, Notts. NG14 6JZ Contact: Sally 0115 911 8700 and 0115 883 0851

13:45-14:15 or 14:00-14:30 Singing & Signing Abbey and Lady Bay Children’s Centre, Tewkesbury Close, West Bridgford, Notts. NG2 5ND Contact: 0115 969 4480

15:15-16:15 The Kimberley School Inclusive Club The Kimberley School, Newdigate Street, Kimberley, Notts. NG16 2NJ Contact Louise Croft 0115 938 7000

15:30-17:30 Special Moments After School Club - Clifton Green Lane Youth Centre, Green Lane, Clifton, Nottingham NG11 9AY Contact Lorraine Pegg 0115 876 2625

15.45-17.45 Butterfly Wings Wednesday Sessions The Summer House, Clare Road, Sutton in Ashfield, Notts. NG17 5BB Contact: 07935 714253

15:45-16:45 Multi-Sport Club Oak Field School & Sports College, Wigman Road, Bilborough, Nottingham, NG8 3HW Contact Helen Derby 07824 871706

16:00-17:00 Boccia Sessions The Grove School, London Road, Newark, Notts. NG24 1TT Contact: Helen Purdy 01636 655797 or Lilley And Stone Site

16:00-17:00 Mansfield Junior Boccia Club Manor Sport and Recreation Centre, Kingsley Avenue, Mansfield Woodhouse, Notts. NG19 8JY Contact: Callum Lawson 01623 425100 (ext 666)

16:00-17:00 Table Cricket@Attenborough £2. Booking Required Broxtowe, Notts. NG9 6AU Contact Sue Moore or at [email protected]

16:00-18:00 Dedicated Disability Swimming Lessons Ken Martin Leisure Centre, Hucknall Lane, Bulwell, Nottingham, NG6 8AP Contact Anna McMahon 07932 583399

17:00-18:00 Oakfield Special Badminton Club Oakfield Specialist Sports College, Bilborough, Nottingham NG8 3HW Contact Elaine 01332 799 442 or [email protected]

17:00-20:00 Breakaway Drama, Art and Music Group Beeston Fire Station, Hassocks Lane, Beeston, NG9 2GQ Contact Teresa or Sharon 0115 837 4949 or [email protected]

17:30-19:00 Powerchair Football Club Portland Leisure Centre, Muskham Street, Nottingham, NG2 2HB Contact Graham Moran 07794 056201




18:00-19:00 Mansfield Special Olympics Club Garibaldi College, Garibaldi Road, Forest Town, Mansfield, Notts. NG19 0JX Contact Glenys Evans 01623 423289

18:00pm-19:00pm Trowell FC Football Session For Children With Disabilities and Inclusion Needs Bramcote Leisure Centre, Derby Road, Bramcote, Nottingham, NG9 3GF Contact: Anthony Beaumont 07747 190341

18.30-20:30 Newark Youth Link For Disabled People Aged 13-24yrs Hawtonville Young People’s Centre, Windsor Road, Newark, Notts. NG24 4HX Contact: Lyndsey Radford 01623 411300 or [email protected]

18.30-21:00 Mansfield Youth Link For Disabled People Aged 13-24yrs Myplace @ Westfield Folkhouse, Westfield Lane, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1TL Contact: Rachael Peat 01623 624179 or [email protected]

18:30-19:30 Want 2 Play FC Bingham Bingham Town, Butt Field, Bingham, Notts. Contact Kevin Sanders 0115 983 7406 or [email protected]

18:30pm-21:00pm West Bridgford Youth Link For Disabled Children Aged 13-24 Years West Bridgford Young People’s Centre, Bridgford Road, West Bridgford, Notts. Contact: Carol Greaves 07949 270038 or [email protected]


19:00-21:00 Nottinghamshire Powerchair FC £3.50 per session, £25 membership fee Garibaldi College, Garibaldi Road, Forest Town, Mansfield, Notts. NG19 0JX Contact: Ricky Stevenson 07932 071364

Alternate Wednesdays09:30-11:30 Autism and ASD Support Group@Southglade Access Centre Southglade Access Centre, Southglade Road, Bestwood, Nottingham NG5 5GU Contact Rachel Kinton 0115 915 9561

1st Wednesday of the month09:00-12:00 Down’s Syndrome Drop In Clinic Children’s Development Centre, City Hospital Campus, Hucknall Road, Nottingham, Contact Joyce or Lyn 0115 883 1157/8 or [email protected]

10:00-12:00 friends4support group for parents of children with a disability in Bassetlaw Zone Out, Worksop Library, Memorial Ave, Worksop, Notts. S80 2BP Contact: Diane Blood 07860 509755 or [email protected]

3rd Wednesday of the month10:00-12:00 Autistic Spectrum Drop In Clinic For parents of children and young people with ASD up to 19 years. Children’s Development Centre, City Hospital Campus, Hucknall Road, Nottingham, NG5 1PB Contact Joyce or Lyn 0115 883 1157/8 or [email protected]

19:30-22:00 NRSB Bowling Night (for adults and children) 1st Bowl Nottingham, 1 Belward Street, Nottingham, NG1 1JZ Contact: Leisure Services Team 0115 970 6806

Every Thursday9:00-16:00 Mencap Me Time Meadows Youth and Community Centre, Wilford Crescent East, Nottingham, NG2 2EF Contact: Tina Tew 07983 535308 or [email protected]

10:00-16:00 Let’s Play Together The Bungalow, Keyworth Primary School, Nottingham Road, Keyworth, Nottingham, NG12 5FB Contact Linda Cox 0115 937 4589 or [email protected]


16:00-17:30 Gedling Sport+ Club £2 per session Redhill Leisure Centre, Redhill Road, Arnold, Nottingham, NG5 8GX Contact Maureen Fox 0115 856 8289 or [email protected]

16:00-17:30 Inclusive Youth Gym - Kimberley Kimberley Leisure Centre, Newdigate Street, Kimberley, Notts. NG16 2NJ Contact Broxtowe Sport 0115 917 3572

16:30-19:30 Oaktree Trampoline Club £3.10 per session Oaktree Leisure Centre, Jubilee Way S, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 3RT Contact: Reception 01623 463 820


18:00-19:00 SAND Sports Club - Play With a Purpose Swimming Lessions Bircotes Leisure Centre, Notts. DN11 8EF Contact Sian Kirk 01909 534489 or [email protected]

18:00-20:00 Nottinghamshire Boccia Club £3.50 per session Joseph Whitaker Sports Centre, Warsop Lane, Rainworth, Notts. NG21 0AG

18.30-20:30 Retford Youth Link For Disabled People Aged 13-24yrs Retford Young People’s Centre, Beardsall Row, Retford, Notts. DN22 6JX Contact: Lyndsey Radford 01623 411300 or [email protected]

18:30-20:30 APTCOO Youth Club APTCOO, Unit 15, Botany Park, Botany Avenue, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1TL Contact APTCOO 01623 629902

18:30-21:00 Gedling Youth Link For Disabled Children Aged 13-24 Years Redhill Young People’s Centre, Redhill Road, Arnold, Notts. NG5 8GX Contact: Carol Greaves 07949 270038 or [email protected]

19:00-21:00 Mansfield Deaf Youth Group Deaf Centre, Wood Street, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1QB Contact 01623 626972


Alternate Thursdays13:30-15:00 Exploring Together Group - Gedling Runs in school holidays. Carlton Children’s Centre, Gedling View Family Centre, Main Road, Notts. NG4 3HS Contact Sally or Jenny 0115 911 8700 and 0115 883 0851

1st Thursday of the month9:30-11:30 Newark and Sherwood Autism Support Group The William Gladstone C of E Primary School, Holden Crescent, Newark, Notts. NG24 4HU Contact Laura 07808 345211

3rd Thursday of the month9:30-11:30 Newark and Sherwood Coffee and Chat Session (all disabilities) Hawtonville Young People’s Centre, Holden Crescent, Windsor Road, Newark, Notts. NG24 4HX Contact Laura 07808 345211

10:00-12:00 The Rainbow Parents Carers Forum Monthly Coffee Morning Nottingham Community and Voluntary Service, 7 Mansfield Road, Nottingham, NG1 3FB Contact: Beverley Denby 078372 78981 or [email protected]

Last Thursday of the month9:30-11:30 Parent Partnership Service Drop In - Gedling Hosted by Debz 4 Coffee Gedling Play Forum, Wollaton Avenue, Gedling, Notts. NG4 4HX Contact Parent Partnership Service 0115 948 2888 or [email protected]

Every Friday12:30-14:30 Boccia League - Ashfield. Free. Lammas Leisure Centre, Lammas Rd, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts. NG17 2AD Contact Ashfield District Council 01623 457410

13:30-14:30 Badminton Sessions - Newark The Grove School, London Road, Newark, Notts. NG24 1TT Contact Liz 01636 655797 or Lilley and Stone site

14:00-15:30 Group For Families With Babies Under 18 Months - Broxtowe Surestart Children’s Centre, Beeston Fields School, Boundary Road, Notts. NG9 2RG Contact 0115 993 5740

16:00-16:30 Inclusive Water Games - Bramcote Bramcote Leisure Centre, Derby Road, Bramcote, Nottingham, NG9 3GF Contact Swimming Development Officer 0115 917 3000


16:30-21:30 Nightflyers Trampoline Club Harvey Hadden Sports Complex, Wigman Road, Bilborough, Nottingham, NG8 4PB

18:00-19:00 Want 2 Play FC Sherwood The Barn, Arnold Hill School, Gedling Road, Notts. NG5 6NZ Contact Kevin Sanders 0115 983 7406 or [email protected]



18:00-20:00 Square Peg Inclusive Dance Group Westfield Folkhouse, Westfield Lane, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1TL Contact: Square Peg 07749 533626 or [email protected]

18:30-19:30 Want 2 Play FC Clifton Farnborough Road, Clifton, Nottingham, NG11 8LU Contact Kevin Sanders 0115 9837406 or [email protected]

19:00-21:00 Nottingham Wheelchair Badminton Club Ellis Guilford Sports Centre, Nottingham, NG6 0DT Contact Elaine 01332 799442

1st Friday of the month10:00-12:00 Carers Federation Carers Session Asda Forest Town, Old Mill Lane, Mansfield, Notts. NG19 0HA. Contact Natasha 077 389 940 53 or [email protected]

2nd Friday of the month13:00-15:00 Hyson Green Parents Support Group Hyson Green Children’s Centre, Mary Potter Centre, Gregory Boulevard, Hyson Green, Nottingham NG7 5HY Contact: 0115 883 8202 or Jo Shaw 0115 915 8900

Every 2nd & 4th Friday of the month10:00-14:00 Nottinghamshire Deaf Society Hard of Hearing Social Club 22 Forest Road West, Nottingham, NG7 4EQ Contact Rachael Ravenlock 0115 988 7576 or [email protected]

Last Friday of the month19:00-21:00 Newark Phab Charles Street Methodist Church, Charles Street, Newark, Notts. Contact: Dawn Downing 01636 705014

Every Saturday9:30-10:30 Community Disability Swim Victoria Leisure Centre, Gedling Street, Nottingham, NG1 1DB Contact Nicola Cranshaw 07932 583399 or [email protected]

10:00-13:00 Jigsaw Youth Club The Monty Hind Centre, Leengate, Lenton, Nottingham, NG7 2LX Contact Danek Jackowski 0776 220 7532 or [email protected]

10:00-12:00 Mansfield Maulers Wheelchair Basketball Club (Saturday) Brunts School, The Park, Park Avenue, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 2AT Contact Pete Edwards 01623 635572

10:00-12:00 Saturday Circles – morning group for children with disabilities APTCOO, Unit 15 Botany Park, Botany Avenue, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 5NF Contact APTCOO 01623 629902

10:00-12:30 Spectrum/Wasp Stapleford Youth Centre, Church Lane, Stapleford, Notts. NG9 8GB Contact: Rachael Peat 01623 626972 or [email protected]

10:30-13:00 Plant Pot Club For Disabled People Aged 13-24yrs Myplace @ Westfield Folkhouse, Westfield Lane, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1TL Contact: Rachael Peat 01623 624179 or [email protected]

13:15-14:45 Dedicated Disability Swimming Lessons Beechdale Swimming Centre, Beechdale Road, Nottingham, NG8 3LL Contact Anna McMahon 07932 583399

13:30-15:30 Square Peg Pride Performing Arts Group Westfield Folkhouse, Westfield Lane, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 1TL Contact: Square Peg 07749 533626 or [email protected]

14:15-15:15 Inclusive Tennis - Clifton Leisure Centre Clifton Children’s Centre, Southchurch Drive, Clifton, Nottingham, NG11 8AB Contact: Active Ace 0115 933 8363 or [email protected]

15:15-16:00 Inclusive Multi-Sports - Clifton Leisure Centre Clifton Children’s Centre, Southchurch Drive, Clifton, Nottingham, NG11 8AB Contact: Active Ace 0115 9338363 or [email protected]

16:00-16:45 Inclusive Family Swim - Clifton Leisure Centre Clifton Children’s Centre, Southchurch Drive, Clifton, Nottingham, NG11 8AB Contact: Active Ace 0115 9338363 or [email protected]

16:00-17:00 Family Youth Gym - Kimberley Newdigate Street, Kimberley, Nottingham, Notts. NG16 2NJ Contact Melissa Jennings 0115 917 3572 or [email protected]

16:00-17:00 Inclusive Trampolining Sessions - Eastwood Eastwood Community Sports Centre, Mansfield Road, Eastwood, Notts. NG16 3EB Contact Melissa Jennings 0115 917 3572 or [email protected]

16:30-19:30 Oaktree Trampoline Club Oaktree Leisure Centre, Jubilee Way S, Mansfield, Notts. NG18 3RT Contact: Reception 01623 463 820

Alternate Saturdays19:30-21:00 Access Tennis Coaching Sessions West Bridgford Tennis Club, Little Bounds, off Wilford Lane, West Bridgford, Notts. NG2 7QA Contact Leslie Whitehead 0115 981 1699

1st Saturday of the month10:00-12:00 Hallcroft Hands Hallcroft Children’s Centre, Whitaker Close, Retford, Notts. DN22 7QH Contact: Emma 01777 712950

1st & 3rd Saturdays of the month10:00-15:00 Nottingham Mencap M8’s Youth Club Harpenden House, 203 Edwards Lane, Sherwood, Nottingham, NG5 3JA Contact 0115 920 4433 or [email protected]:00-13:00 Nottinghamshire Sheriffs Goalball Club Sutton Bonnington, Sports Centre, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonnington, LE12 5RD Contact Faye 0115 9706 806 or [email protected]

1st & last Saturday of the month12:00-14:00 NRSB Knights Visually Impaired Cricket Team Trent Bridge, Cricket Ground, Sobers Hall, Nottingham NG2 6AG Contact Faye 0115 970 6806 or [email protected]

2nd Saturday of the month14:00-16:00 The Rainbow Parents Carers Forum Jigsaw Centre, Glenbrook Primary School, Wigman Road, Bilborough, Nottingham, NG8 4PD Contact Beverley Denby 078372 78981 or [email protected]

4th Saturday of the month14:00-15:55 Rainbow Parents Carers Forum 2nd Session Monty Hind Club, Leengate, Lenton, Nottingham, NG7 2LX Contact Beverley Denby 07837 278981 or [email protected]

Last Saturday of the month10:00-11:30 Special Kids Loco Youth Club Loco Centre, Victoria Road, Netherfield, Nottingham, NG4 2PD Contact Special Kids 07852 156570 or [email protected]

Every Sunday09:00-11:00 Wheelchair Tennis Nottingham Tennis Centre, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2QH Contact Pete Whitehead 0115 915 0050

09:30-10:00 Dedicated Disability Swimming Session Southwell Leisure Centre, Nottingham Road, Southwell, Notts. NG25 0LG Contact Reception 01636 813000

10:30am-14:00pm Supported Environment Screening at Savoy Cinema - Worksop Bridge Street, Worksop, Notts. S80 1HP 01909 481900 or [email protected]

10:45-11:30 Inclusive Swimming Lessons - Bramcote (10-15) Bramcote Leisure Centre, Derby Road, Bramcote, Nottingham, Notts. NG9 3GF Contact Louisa Allmark 0115 917 3000

11:15-12:00 Inclusive Swimming Lessons - Bramcote (4-10) Bramcote Leisure Centre, Derby Road, Bramcote, Nottingham, Notts. NG9 3GF Contact Swimming Development Officer 0115 917 3000

14:00-15:00 Indigo Karate Club The Old School, Beardall Street, Hucknall, Notts, NG15 7JU Contact Peter Wilkinson 0115 952 1164 or [email protected]

16:00-17:00 Disability Swimming - Ashfield Lammas Leisure Centre, Lammas Rd, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts. NG17 2AD Contact Lyndsey Matthews 01623 511177

17:30-19:00 Bingham Penguins Swimming Club Bingham Leisure Centre, The Banks, Bingham, Notts. NG13 8BL

Every second Sunday of the month10:00-14:00 Showcase Cinema Autism Friendly Screening Showcase Cinema, Redfield Way, Lenton, Nottingham, NG7 2UW

Most Sundays10:00-10:45 Inclusion Skating at Capital One Rink National Ice Centre, Nottingham, NG1 1LA Contact Ice Sports Reception 0843 373 3000


It’s a skill that no doubt serves Jo well as the local rep for SWAN UK (Syndromes Without A Name) but it’s also a trait that you suspect she learnt as, like many parents of children with undiagnosed genetic conditions, she has had her fair share of trying times.

Jo’s second child Jacob was born at 39 weeks without incident but after 24 hours he had what’s called a major cyanotic event and stopped breathing a few times.

There was no indication why this life threatening event occurred and despite a head scan doctors concluded it was a blip and the family were sent home.

However 8 or 9 months later Jo noticed that Jacob wasn’t meeting his developmental milestones and after consulting with doctors he was sent for monitoring at the Children’s Development Centre at the City Hospital.

The next few months went slowly amid a battery of tests and questions but eventually Jo was told that Jacob would be disabled.

She says: “It was like the floor fell away but oddly in some ways it was also a release because I had known there was something else going on and the constant back and forth was

exhausting.”

Still a diagnosis eluded the family and finally Jacob was referred to genetics – who helped to put together a picture of this unique young man.

Since that day the family have received a statement of special educational needs

and have a better understanding of the challenges Jacob faces with language, mobility and behaviour.

Jacob has also settled down into school life at Ash Lea special school and is a happy (and loud) 11 year old.

But, importantly, he remains undiagnosed to this day – something which is not uncommon among children with genetic conditions.

This can be very isolating for parents and young people who, quite rightly, feel that no-one understands – and Jo says that some of the other support groups she tried weren’t always very helpful.

She said “I would often sit there thinking “that doesn’t sound like my son” - We never really felt like we fitted”.

Thankfully Jo found SWAN UK which allowed her to communicate with other parents who would understand this frustration.

“I found the group very supportive – it’s just a place where you’re going to be understood, where you can vent… It’s a very safe non-judgemental environment”.

If you would like to contact Jo and ask her more about SWAN UK then you can do so by emailing [email protected]. SWAN UK also has a very active Facebook page and interested readers are advised to check it out.

Reaching OutA diagnosis of blindness or visual impairment can be devastating for families – but thankfully there’s someone out there to talk to.Action Talking Therapies Network is a specialist counselling service for people who are blind or partially sighted and their close friends, carers or relatives and also works with the parents of visually impaired children.The free service is a project run by Action for Blind People (funded by the Department of Health) and offers six sessions of free counselling which can take place at specialist facilities in Radford or even in your own home.

Senior Counsellor Kate Lloyd (pictured) says it’s important the service reaches out.

She said: “It can be very intimidating for newly diagnosed people.

Some people have such high anxiety they might not want to leave their houses”

Loss of confidence is the most common reason people seek out the service with low self esteem affecting people’s jobs and relationships.

Thankfully Kate’s background includes working in employment services as well as in schools supporting children at risk of lacking education, employment or training and so she can help address concerns (and myths!) with employers and suggest amendments that can be made.

This experience also comes into play with the service’s other role - offering training to mainstream counselling providers on the impact of sight loss.

If you would like to access the service, or would just like to know a bit more, you can contact it on 07834 258013.

The IRIS Magazine 9

Syndromes Without A NameWhen you meet Jo Burt the first thing that strikes you (after you realise how friendly she is) is how calm she seems.

10 The IRIS Magazine

Nice Ice TrainingA free new program is helping young people get on the ice and learn fundamental ice skating skills.The “Skate Inclusive” sessions at the National Ice Centre in Nottingham are for young adults with a learning disability aged 11 to 25 and are the first of their kind in the UK.

Coaching is provided by the team at the National Ice Centre which includes Mandy, a former GB Olympic Speed Skater who skated at the Lake Placid Games in 1980 – although thankfully Mandy takes the sessions at a rather slower pace than she’s capable of!

Mandy says that she enjoys coaching the sessions due to the enthusiasm of those people that attend and feels that as the parent of a child with Tuberous Sclerosis and autism she can relate to the concerns that parents and carers may have taking part in an activity such as ice skating.

She added: “My eldest son Paul skates for the short track speed skating team and represented Team GB at the Vancouver Winter Olympic Games in 2010 – this was on the same day Mark learned to tell the time, which had been a real struggle for him.

“Even now I couldn’t tell you which was the most emotional event for me”.

While visiting the National Ice Centre IRIS also caught up with Space Inclusive, who offer person centred programs for people with learning disabilities who receive a personal budget and were busy supporting their service users at the session (see their comments below).

Matt Bradbury, Sports Development Officer at the National Ice Centre

said: “We’re very excited to have been awarded funding from Sportivate. An opportunity like this will enable us to build on the disabled inclusion sessions that are already

taking place, but ultimately allow us to devise specific levels which will encourage disabled people to learn a new skill and take to the ice with confidence.

The sessions have been made possible by Sportivate funding which is provided by Sport England and managed locally by Sport Nottinghamshire.

Although the current block of sessions are now fully booked plans are already underway to deliver further Skate Inclusive sessions for people with Physical Disabilities and Visual and Hearing Impairments from May through July.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity – have your name added to the interest list by contacting Janet Wass on 0115 853 3010.

Alternatively, for further information check out the NIC website www.national-ice-centre.co or view its Twitter and Facebook.

Victoria – “I found it easy to learn here. It’s really good for your movement and for your body. The Coaches are really helpful and I enjoy myself whilst ice skating”.

Ritchie – “I’ve not been ice skating for ages… not since I was ten years old with my dad. I guess I’m just a natural!” (Editor’s note – we think Ritchie might be pulling our leg here, as the photos show he’s pretty good!)

Ann - “I enjoy the sessions. It’s a great way of exercising. I used to be good at ice skating once upon a time but I’ve not been able to do it in years so it’s good to get back into the swing of things”.

What did the young people think?

With a grown-up family and a fulfilling career Teresa decided it was time for a lifestyle change and a new challenge.

Her brother Mark had moved to France in 2004 and had opened a successful holiday home business and her initial plan was to buy a modest house with one or two homes which could be modified for people with physical disabilities and where she could offer a qualified respite care service.

She said. ‘I realise how difficult it can be for families and support workers to resource a suitable holiday venue which is welcoming, non-judgmental and tailored to meet the needs of their loved ones.’

When a large derelict farm complex in the Dordogne region of France came on the market, the idea suddenly mushroomed into the concept of a holiday complex specifically designed to cater for disability.

Mark had already renovated his own complex so had the experience necessary for the physical transformation and had welcomed many families with additional needs to his own site.

After 3 years of hard graft the complex finally opened in the summer of 2013.

The site comprises four homes of which three are fully adapted for wheelchair users. The entire complex is wheelchair accessible and is fully enclosed. Facilities include a solar-heated pool with ramp for wheelchair access, adapted indoor playroom, soft play room, sensory room and crazy golf course.

There is also a hoist onsite and specialist beds can be provided by a local French company.

With word spreading and the benefit of lots of great feedback and repeat business, Domaine du Sourire is going from strength to strength.

Teresa says, ‘There were many times when I was cold, tired, covered in cement and the final goal seemed so far away, but now, seeing the happy faces and gratitude of guests, I’m so pleased and proud that we’ve done it!’

For further information on Domaine du Sourire visit the website at www.domainedusourire.com

The IRIS Magazine 11

A Unique Holiday Experience For DisabilityAfter working in Social Care for more than 20 years Teresa Camilli made the most of an opportunity to create a holiday complex with a difference.

Applications For Including Parents Conference Now Open!If you’ve heard great things about Notts’ popular Including Parents Conference (and who hasn’t?) then you’ve got until April 3rd to apply for your place.

This advert was approved by the IRIS Focus Group as being appropriate and useful for our readers. If you are interested in being involved with the group and influencing future decisions contact IRIS via the contact details on the front page.

The free conference is open to all parents/carers of children and young people with SEND who are resident in Nottinghamshire, or whose child or children attend a Nottinghamshire school.

It takes place on from 9.15am until 3pm on 13th May at Bestwood Lodge Hotel in Bestwood Park and will feature a range of information as well as a range of workshops.

This year the Keynote speaker is Nottinghamshire County Council Wiki Websites Coordinator Craig Wilkie.

Wiki websites are a fresh and exciting way for young people with SEND and their families to tell their stories using multi- media approaches and Craig will demonstrate their benefits alongside young people and carers – who will share experiences of using them with attendees.

IRIS will also be on hand to provide additional information and answer specific questions from parents.

If you would like to attend then an application form can be requested by emailing us here at the IRIS project at: [email protected] or via telephone on 0115 8533291

IRIS

Sponsored Story


Indigo Information DayFacts meet fun at the annual Indigo Information Day in Hucknall next month.

The day offers the chance for balloon twisting, face painting, Easter egg hunts and candy floss – as well as the chance to chat to organisations providing help for children on the autistic spectrum and their parents and carers.

It’s also a great chance for you to take a look around its new premises at the Old School in Beardall Street, Hucknall.

The day starts at 11am and lasts until 4pm and is completely free.

For more information contact Indigo on 0115 952 1164.

The individual needs of cardholders are assessed and entered into a secure database by card creators Nimbus - a social enterprise consultancy run by disabled people.

This then allows the venue to access information on the barriers faced by the customer, including how they can support them.

Capital FM Arena’s Accessibility Officer Stephen Chaston, said: “This is another step towards our aim, to be one of the most accessible venues in the music industry. “We wanted to make it easier, simpler and quicker for our disabled customers to start their event experience with us and the Access Card allows us to achieve that.”

Since the Arena went live, a host of other major venues have followed including Nottingham Forest’s city ground, Download Festival, All 02 Academies and even Glastonbury festival.

Celebrity and actor Warwick Davis is among those who see the value in the scheme.

Speaking on a recent theatre tour he said:

“The Access Card has real potential as it recognises that accessing services is about what a provider needs to do to enable a visitor; that people have all kinds of different needs and abilities but the focus is sometimes more on what a disabled person can’t do than how to support them.

“Access isn’t simply about wheelchair bays and the card can help people communicate this without going into intrusive levels of detail”

The Access Card costs £15 for three years.

Applications for a card can be made online at www.credability.uk.com/access-card, by requesting / downloading a hard copy or over the phone via 01332 404040 (option 5)

Sky’s The Limit –Nottingham First Arena To Support Nimbus Access Card

Nottingham’s Capital FM Arena is the first in the county to introduce a new card that discreetly informs venues of people’s needs.

Parents and kids at the new Butterfly Wings SEN support group got messy when they experimented with making Play Doh this month. Sam, 6 (far left) said: “It’s great that we get to make it as well as play with it! It’s been really good fun!”

The new sessions are for parents/carers and their children to come along and meet new friends, share experiences, and play in a fun, non-judgmental, safe and friendly environment.

You do not need a diagnosis to attend.

The group is based at Summerhouse Children’s Centre, Clare Road, Sutton-In-Ashfield on Mondays (0-5 year olds) from 12.30 until 2.30pm and Wednesday (5-12 year olds) from 3.45 until 5.45pm.

The group costs £3 and includes refreshments.

For more information visit the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Butterflywingssensupport or telephone 07935 714254

The card will be active in time for McBusted in April


If you know an organisation that might be able to turn funding into fun then why not let them know about the new Community Short Breaks Grant?

Following feedback from parents Nottinghamshire County Council - in Partnership with Sainsbury’s Wheelergate - are making grants of up to £5,000 available for those who are willing to develop short break

holiday and play activities for children with special needs or disabilities in school holidays.

The activities can be one-off events or a series of events but must be delivered in the county before 31st March next year.

If you would like to find out more email [email protected] or ring the Council’s business support team on 01623 433102.

Funding Available For Nottinghamshire Organisations Offering School Holiday Play Activities

Around two years ago the pair were visiting their GP’s surgery for some routine Vitamin B injections.

The injections had gone fine, and Chitra was bending down to get her diary out of the buggy Avy uses to transport himself, to book in a further appointment.

When she straightened up again, however, she noticed Avy had something in his mouth.

Noticing that he was missing his hearing aid she managed to get his jaw open only to discover the battery compartment was open and the battery was gone.

Chitra and the nurse took Avy out of his buggy and checked his clothes, and stripped the buggy

and its straps but the battery still didn’t appear. She said: “I wasn’t sure what to do but the nurse told me don’t wait – take him to accident and emergency right now.“They later told me it was the perfect thing to do”.Doctors used an Otoscope to check Avy’s nose and ears and, having not found it anywhere round the head, ran a chest and abdominal x-ray.It was at this point that one of the consultants mentioned to Chitra that they had had a few cases of hearing aid batteries being swallowed.

Thankfully Avy was fine and following the incident Chitra spoke

to the audiology department that issued the hearing aid which replaced the battery and added a lock as well.

But the incident continued to play on Chitra’s mind and she worried about the other cases that the consultant had mentioned.

As a stroke of luck Chitra’s specialism as a scientific researcher relates to medical safety and so she spoke to parents and gastroenterologists in Swansea (where the family had lived previously) and Nottingham and found that battery locks are not common, and that there were many incidents where batteries had needed to be removed from younger children’s stomachs.

She took these findings to her supervisor and together they drafted a journal article to make people aware of the dangers - which was published by the British Academy of Audiology (BAA) last year.

Since writing the article Chitra’s quest has intensified and she has given talks on Hearing Aid Battery Ingestion at a Patient Safety Conference in September, and the National Deaf Children’s Society (NDCS) Families Magazine is printing an article on the matter.

She urges parents reading the IRIS magazine to ensure their child has a battery lock and continues to raise awareness with Audiologists, Paediatricians and Hearing Aid manufacturers regarding the need to take the issue seriously and fit tamper-proof battery locks in all hearing aids.

She adds: “We are not looking at blame. It’s about a learning culture”.

Vigilant Parent Helps Spread Hearing Aid Safety AwarenessComputer Scientist Chitra Acharya’s son Avy has complex needs and receives one to one care – and also wears a hearing aid in each ear.


Tempestuous TransitionsSomething special is taking place at the Nottingham Playhouse over the coming month. Running from 23 - 27 March is Wave – a play specifically written for young people with a profound disability.

IRIS sat down with Writer Gill Brigg (pictured) to discuss the play and how it might relate to our readers.

Tell me a little about the play? Wave is inspired by Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” and our play picks up the story after Shakespeare’s finishes. In “Wave” Prospero has to adapt as his daughter Miranda is ready to leave home.

I wanted to write a piece that was resonant for people with disabilities and that’s why the story deals with independence and relationships – the play is for people who might themselves feel that these are experiences that are not open to them.

I hear the set is quite interesting…It’s a very richly designed environment - a custom built fabric theatre which takes the company around four hours to put up and break down and is meant for six audience members with a disability. The set is very engaging and has a life of

its own. If people wish to interact with the scenery that’s great as it’s all about multiple strands of access to the story and multiple understandings. The aim is to have a highly accessible narrative but for those who might not follow the story there is lots of sensory input.

What excites you most about the play?I think that the thing that excites me the most is that it combines so many elements of theatre in a way that can make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up – a full lighting rig, live music, surround sound and great actors. It’s a bittersweet story with joy, terrible happiness and sadness… I hope it’s an emotional arc the audience will enjoy.

Was it a challenge working with such a small set?No, not really. The challenge is making the emotional story feel-able and touchable. I find that people with learning disabilities best access theatre by being completely immersed whilst at the same time

being reassured that if there’s an emotional feeling, it’s not real… that they’re safe. We encourage our audiences to leave the space and return if they want to in order to help with this safety process. The challenge would actually be making it work for bigger spaces because we might lose touch with the audience.

Do you think the play will also appeal to parents and carers of children with a disability as well as their children?

Absolutely. My guess is that the most affecting shows would be those involving family audiences. If you’re a family where there’s a prospect of giving independence to a family member it can be a very emotional choice and a piece like this can summon these emotions.

What’s your experience of disability and how does it relate to this piece?

I teach in a special school half the week. I’ve worked with learning disabled people of all ages within educational settings and I find the most challenging aspect is preparing people to be citizens of the world. So little of our culture is focused on the life experiences of disabled people that come in the teenage years – falling in love and navigating relationships – that I felt there was a lot of mileage in writing about those rites of passage.

For more information about the play and to book tickets contact 0115 941 9419.


When Angel (pictured) was diagnosed with Spina Bifida when I was 20 weeks pregnant I didn’t have a clue what that was.I sat in a side room at the Queens Medical Centre and there was a poster about Shine so I wrote the number down off the poster on the wall… I was so mixed up and scared.I spoke to a lovely lady called Rosemary I told her I was confused and didn’t know what to do and she sent me lots of information and advice on what to do and how to care for the baby in simple terms I could understand.

Shine even sent a rep to see me and she became my new best friend!

She helped me ensure I got the right benefits and as my daughter got older they came in to give training to Angel’s nursery regarding how to care for her.

I’ve been to Shine’s family weekends away too and I was amazed at how much more I actually learned from professionals and other parents.

You just stop feeling alone… and before I got in touch I did feel alone.

Shine is a charity which supports the families of those diagnosed with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, as well as the professionals who work with them.

It provides information and face to face support – with a network of workers providing advice and information to those who need it.

Both Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus are commonly diagnosed during pregnancy and the charity are also available to have a non-judgemental discussion with parents who may not yet have decided whether to continue with the pregnancy or not.

The charity also boasts a huge community network of members and provides support groups across the UK and hosts various information and social events and family weekends, which allow families to get together and share their experiences.

For more information about Shine visit the website at www.shinecharity.org.uk or telephone 01733 555 988.

Focus On...SHINE

Tracey and Angel’s Story

Winter WonderlandYoung people from Nottinghamshire County Council’s Play For Disabled Children Team recently braved the cold to experience a magical winter wonderland at Center Parcs, Sherwood Forest. Our snowy explorers got the chance to meet real life reindeers among the frigid snow-capped trees before enjoying a swimming session in the Tropical Swimming Paradise.

Manager Sarah Blackhurst said: “A huge thank you goes to all the staff - both Nottinghamshire County Council and Center Parcs - that helped to make the trip such a great success!”

“All the children had a wonderful time – especially when they were splashing the staff as much as possible!”

The smiling faces continued into the afternoon where the group took part in bowling, climbing wall, badminton and an especially enjoyable roller disco!

If you live in the county and think a child you care for would benefit from attending the group then contact your social worker in the Children’s Disability Service for a referral.

Tel: 0115 853 3291 E: [email protected] W: www.askiris.org.uk

Please recycle when you have finished with this publication.

IRIS Project, Ladybrook Children’s CentreThe Flying High Academy Site (Previously Known as Rosebrook Primary School), Townroe Drive, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, NG19 6JN

This magazine was designed by Sketch Creative – www.sketch-creative.co.uk and printed by Rosehill Press Ltd


Hear2Help Gets a Hot Choc Boost!A valuable community outreach service got a boost in funding after winning a national vote.

The Ear Foundation’s free Hear2Help service won £300 from the “Galaxy Hot Chocolate fund” – set up by the chocolate giant to reward worthy community groups and charities.

The service provides an outreach service within Nottingham and Nottinghamshire communities for those who are unable to attend their local clinic/hospital due to their inability to travel and access these much needed services.

It provides a free service to clean hearing aids and replace batteries, re-tube ear moulds and signpost to other services which might be needed.

Fundraising Co-ordinator Jo Collinson said: “We are delighted to have received this funding, particularly as it was “The People’s Choice Vote”, and proof enough that The Ear Foundation has the support of the public.”

This donation will help with the running costs of this free service including advertising, providing equipment and hiring spaces to hold these Drop-In Clinics.

If you would like further information, please take a look at: www.earfoundation.org.uk and search for Hear 2 Help.

This summer why not encourage someone you know to try a new sport? At the Active Ashfield Inclusive Sports Day you can have a go at Boccia, New age Kurling, Bowls, Wheelchair Rugby, Wheelchair Basketball and more!

It takes place on Monday 22nd June from 10.30am until 3.30pm at Lammas Leisure Centre, Lammas Road, Sutton in Ashfield.

Lunch will be provided for all participants but places will be limited and must be booked in advance.

For more information or to book a place please contact Dianne Holmes on 01623 457233 or email [email protected]

Fundays Summer School Dates AnnouncedFunDays’ long-running summer school for children and young adults with physical and/or learning disabilities in Nottinghamshire returns to Oak Field school between July and August.The dates are:l Monday 27th July to Friday 31st July 2015l Monday 3rd August to Friday 7th August 2015l Monday 10th August to Friday 14th August 2015 The summer schools cost £10 per day and activities include group outings and activities, drama, art, pottery, music, cooking – and much more!To book on the summer schools or to find out more information contact Margaret Stannard at [email protected]

Advertising space in this magazine is sold in good faith and the publication team can

take no responsibility for the quality of goods or services offered. Adverts and advertisers appearing in this magazine carry no implied recommendation from the magazine or the

publication team. Please address any queries or concerns directly with the advertiser.

All rights reserved.

Have A Go!

Step Up To Bat This SummerA series of inclusive cricket coaching sessions for young people aged 14 and older launches this summer.

The free weekly sessions take place at 10am for one hour at Lammas Leisure Centre, Sutton in Ashfield every Thursday from May 7th.

These training sessions last for 8 weeks – finishing just in time for an inclusive cricket festival at Mansfield Hosiery Mills Cricket Club on Tuesday 7th July from 10.30am until 2pm.

Places on all sessions will be limited and must be booked in advance so to do so contact Dianne Holmes on 01623 457233 or email [email protected]

an information service for parents of children and young ... · magazine fills me with optimism....

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